Two Men Jailed Over Murder of Michael Boyle in Southwark
Two men have been locked up for the brutal killing of Michael Boyle in Southwark. The verdict came down at Inner London Crown Court on Friday, 24 August.
Life Sentence for Murderer
Geoffrey Downs, 37, of Grosvenor Terrace, SE5, was handed a life sentence. He must serve at least 25 years behind bars for the murder.
Accomplice Gets Over Two Years
Derek Green, 48, from Langdale Close, SE17, received two years and three months for assisting an offender.
Stabbing at Local Pub Ends in Tragedy
The shocking incident occurred on Sunday, 25 February at the Sir Robert Peel Pub in Langdale Close, SE17. Police arrived to find Michael Boyle suffering from a stab wound. Despite emergency efforts, he passed away in hospital on 10 March.
A post-mortem on 15 March confirmed the cause of death as multiple organ failure due to a chest stab wound.
Charges and Court Drama
- Downs was first charged on 26 February with attempted murder, possession of an offensive weapon, and common assault.
- His charge was upgraded to murder at the Old Bailey on 26 March.
- He pleaded guilty to murder and weapon possession on 30 July.
- Green was charged on 13 March with attempting to pervert justice and later admitted to assisting an offender.
“Mr Boyle was defenceless when he was attacked by Downs on that fatal morning in February and he tragically later died from his injuries.” – Detective Sergeant Stuart Reeves
“No sentence will make up for the tragic loss that the family and friends of Michael Boyle have, and will continue to endure. We hope today’s sentences will provide some comfort to Michael’s family and friends.”
